Sleep patterns in teens can indicate symptoms of bipolar disorder or depression

Researchers from the Brain and Mind Research Institute in Sydney have found a correlation between the hours teenagers sleep and the onset of depression, bipolar disorder or psychosis, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

Experts say that most people with mood disorders may experience irregular sleep patterns years, weeks or days before symptoms occur. Furthermore, research reveals that teenagers have daily rhythms and sleep and wake patterns as part of the maturation of the brain. However, in people who have mood disorders, sleeping can often become unstable.

Studies show that irregular sleeping patterns could be considered an “early marker” for diagnosing individuals with bipolar disorder. Experts say that the condition is often misdiagnosed as depression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Schools for troubled teens can help individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder make healthy lifestyle choices by giving them the attention and care that traditional schools cannot.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 5.7 million Americans suffer from bipolar disorder. Furthermore, approximately 2.6 percent of the U.S. population is afflicted with the condition.